ARMED thugs ram-raided a cash van in Liverpool city centre today.

As the guards were delivering to the Clayton Square shopping centre at 7.20am, a silver Vauxhall Zafira sped across the pedestrianised street and slammed into the side of the van.

Two raiders, wearing balaclavas and dark clothing, jumped out and threatened the guards, who were about to refill the cash machine at the bottom of the stairs in the centre.

Eyewitnesses have told police one of the men had a weapon but accounts differ as to whether it was a gun or knife.

The crooks grabbed a cash box and jumped into a waiting black hatchback before speeding off.

Ed Oliver, centre manager for Clayton Square Shopping Centre said: "An incident took place at 7.20am today where a car was reversed into the front entrance of Clayton Square Shopping Centre as Group 4 Security personnel were replenishing one of the ATM’s situated in the lower floor.

"It is understood that the two people involved in the crime escaped the scene and that no-one was injured during the incident.

"The upper floor at Clayton Square is trading as normal, however the lower floor is temporarily partially closed whilst Merseyside Police undertake their investigations.

"Normal trading at the centre will be resumed as soon as possible."